How to Use Dummies for Gundog Training

Training a gundog takes time, consistency, and the right tools, and one of the most useful tools in your training kit is the dummy.

Simple yet effective, dummies can help shape your dog into a reliable hunting partner.

Here’s how you can make the most of dummies during your gundog’s training journey.

Pick the Perfect Dummy

The first step is choosing the right dummy for your dog. Dummies come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, so it’s important to match the dummy to your dog’s experience level.

For younger dogs, a smaller, softer dummy is easier to handle. More seasoned dogs might need a heavier, more durable option to challenge them.

Bright colours like orange or white are also great choices since they’re easier to spot in different environments.

Gentle Introduction

How you introduce the dummy to your dog can make a big difference. Let your dog sniff and explore it at their own pace, without any pressure.

You can even play a gentle game, waving the dummy in front of your dog, to create a positive connection.

Hold off on throwing it right away—give your dog time to become familiar with its look and feel before expecting them to retrieve it.

Start with Basic Retrieval

Once your dog is comfortable, you can begin with simple retrieval exercises. Keep the throws short and low, making it easy for your dog to succeed.

Use lots of praise and encouragement to motivate them to fetch the dummy. As your dog builds confidence, gradually increase the distance of the throws.

Try Advanced Techniques

Once basic retrieves are mastered, you can introduce more advanced exercises to further challenge your gundog:

• Blind Retrieves: Hide the dummy out of sight, like in tall grass or behind obstacles, and let your dog rely on their nose to find it.
• Multiple Retrieves: Toss two or more dummies in different directions to teach your dog to remember multiple locations. Send your dog for the retrieves in different orders to help your dog to develop his memory.
• Water Retrieves: If your dog is ready for water training, try using a water-specific dummy in shallow water before moving to deeper areas.

Stay Consistent and Patient

Training a gundog is a gradual process that requires both consistency and patience. Short, regular training sessions tend to work better than long, infrequent ones.

Celebrate small wins along the way and remain calm if progress slows down. A positive and steady approach will keep your dog motivated and eager to learn.

Simulate Real-World Scenarios

As your dog progresses, it’s a good idea to introduce training scenarios that mimic real situations.

You can use fur dummies and balls to simulate game or set up distractions to help your dog to focus.

These scenarios can help to prepare your dog for what they’ll face when working.

Training your gundog with dummies is great fun and with a little thought can be a rewarding experience that helps your dog develop the skills that he will need when out shooting.

With the right tools, techniques, and a lot of patience, you’ll be well on your way to having a dependable and well-trained gundog by your side.